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Friday, June 25, 2010

Manuel: The Man Who Makes The World Sparkle!

The past few weeks have been very busy, but I’m not complaining! Just apologizing for not getting a chance to add a new blog last week. One of the many highlights of this week was getting to interview someone I’ve had the opportunity to get to know over the past year or so, iconic designer and costumer Manuel, also known as the Rhinestone Rembrandt.

While the majority of Manuel’s elaborate designs have been worn by many country music legends such as Johnny Cash, Porter Wagoner, and Dolly Parton (whom he says he’s known since she was in training bras!), he has also designed for some of the biggest rock stars of all time, numerous movie stars, and even four U.S. presidents! I got to talk with Manuel yesterday for a video segment about his work with rock icons like Elvis, the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, and Elton John. One of his designs was even worn by Bob Dylan when he sang for the Pope.

Manuel has been designing since the very young age of seven, and says he has never worn anything bought from a store since that age. His entire wardrobe right down to his jewelry and shoes is made with his own two hands. I look up to Manuel because his philosophy in designing for musicians is very similar to my philosophy in doing imaging and styling for musicians. In a 2004 interview with ABC’s Primetime news show, Manuel says, “My clients have to trust me to create not just clothes but an image…[Musicians] have to have respect for the public that pays to go see them…You’re going to entertain people. You better dress up like an entertainer.”

Not only is this gentleman creative and talented, but also very wise. His take on life and success is something we can all learn from.